Expansion and contraction joints are known to be subjected to significant stresses due to various environmental changes such as temperature fluctuations, humidity, earthquakes, and soil subsidence. These stresses can damage the joints, negatively affecting the performance of engineering structures. To ensure that these joints continue to perform efficiently, we must periodically address the problems resulting from these stresses. In this article, we will discuss how to treat expansion and contraction joints to maintain the safety of buildings, bridges, and roads.
Why do we care about treating expansion and contraction joints?
As mentioned earlier, joints are subjected to significant stresses that may lead to their damage. In this section, we will review the reasons why treating these joints is necessary in detail:
· If the joints are untreated or damaged, they will not serve the purpose for which they were made, leading to cracks in the concrete structure and deformations that can affect the safety of the structure.
· Untreated joints lose their durability over time, leading to corrosion and damage resulting from various environmental factors such as humidity and heat.
· Poorly treated joints cannot adapt to continuous environmental changes such as temperature fluctuations, earthquakes and soil movement, which affects the performance of the structure.
· If joints are not treated, water leakage may occur, which leads to corrosion and damage to the construction materials.
· Treating joints contributes to improving the structural performance of structures, making them stronger and more stable.
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Treatment of expansion and contraction joints in buildings
Expansion and contraction joints are important elements in the design and construction of structures, as they allow the building to move and adapt to changes in temperature, humidity and soil movement. However, these joints may be damaged over time, which requires proper treatment to maintain the integrity of the building.
Causes of Expansion and Contraction Joints Damage
1. Thermal fluctuations
2. Humidity and water leaks
3. Mechanical stresses
4. Natural corrosion over time
5. Poor implementation or use of inappropriate materials
Methods for Treating Expansion and Contraction Joints
Cleaning and Inspection
The first step in treating expansion and contraction joints is cleaning and inspection. This step involves removing old dirt and contaminants from the joints to obtain a clean surface that ensures good adhesion of the materials used later. After cleaning, the joints are carefully inspected to determine the extent and type of damage, which helps in making the most appropriate decision to treat them.
Filling the joints
After cleaning and evaluating the joints, flexible and water-resistant materials such as silicone, polyurethane, and epoxy compounds are used to fill the joints. These materials restore the performance of the joints and ensure their resilience to various environmental changes such as thermal fluctuations and humidity. The materials must be evenly distributed, and the joints should be free of voids to achieve maximum effectiveness.
Covering the joints
Sometimes, it is necessary to cover the joints with metal or plastic covers to protect them from future damage. These covers help provide additional protection for joints against environmental and mechanical factors that may lead to their damage. The appropriate covers are selected based on the project needs and the type of joints, and are carefully installed to ensure that the required protection is fully provided.
Treating leaks
When water leaks are discovered in the joints, it is important to act quickly to treat them using appropriate waterproofing materials. This is to prevent corrosion of the construction materials next to the joints. Materials such as waterproof cement or epoxy compounds can be used. These materials work to insulate the joints excellently and ensure future water leakage.
Repairing the Surrounding Concrete
The damaged concrete near or next to these joints is repaired by applying cement mortar or epoxy compounds.
Preventing Future Joint Damage
1. First, the expansion and contraction joints must be chosen appropriately with the environmental factors affecting the building.
2. Use high-quality materials when manufacturing and maintaining expansion and contraction joints.
3. Design an effective drainage system to prevent moisture accumulation.
4. Regular maintenance and periodic inspection.
Contact Information for iChem
· +201080029701
· +20222909120
· email: Info@iChemEG.com
iChem Company specializes in all aspects of expansion and contraction joints, from manufacturing and processing, starting from cleaning and inspection, to refilling joints and installing covers, to treating leaks and repairing the surrounding concrete. We guarantee the use of the best materials and the latest technologies to ensure maximum effectiveness and strength of the structural structure. Do not hesitate to contact us for a reliable and distinguished service.